Menopause Specialist

What is menopause?

Menopause is that point in a woman’s life when she stops getting her period. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51. But it can happen anytime in her 40s and 50s. While it’s a natural process, menopause can cause unpleasant symptoms that affect your quality of life, especially when it’s not treated.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Symptoms many women experience right before, during, or after menopause include:

• Vaginal dryness
• Hot flashes
• Menstruation changes
• Night sweats
• Chills
• Mood changes
• Irritability
• Weight gain
• Slowed metabolism
• Dry hair
• Loss of breast fullness
• Fatigue
• Reduced sexual desire
• Sleeping difficulty
• Urinary problems
• Osteoporosis

The symptoms of menopause differ from person to person. You might notice changes in your menstrual periods during the time leading up to menopause before your periods stop completely.

Am I a candidate for menopause treatments?

Schedule an appointment with your Collaborative Women’s Care provider to determine if you’re a candidate for menopause treatment and which treatment is best for you.

They check your vital signs, review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and complete a physical exam — including a pelvic exam if needed. Your doctor might recommend that you undergo a blood test, ultrasound, or other diagnostic procedures to detect hormone imbalances and possible OB/GYN problems.

What are common treatments for menopause symptoms?

Depending on which symptoms you have, your medical history, and your preferences, Collaborative Women’s Care specialists will recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Adopting healthy habits and trying home remedies can reduce unpleasant menopause symptoms. Relieve hot flashes using a cold washcloth and try over-the-counter vaginal lubrication. Get plenty of sleep and regular exercise, eat healthy food, and maintain an ideal body weight. Consider massage or other relaxation techniques, and don’t smoke.

Dietary supplements

Taking certain dietary supplements can reduce hot flashes and other unpleasant symptoms that commonly come with menopause.

Medications

Taking medications can lessen menopause symptoms or health problems that often come with aging, like osteoporosis. Your OB/GYN specialist personalizes a medication regimen that’s best for you.

Hormone therapy

Collaborative Women’s Care specialists offer various forms of hormone treatment. It comes in pills, subdermal pellets, patches, and vaginal applications. They all balance your hormone levels and relieve your menopause symptoms.

Don’t suffer through crippling menopause symptoms when you don’t have to. Call the Collaborative Women’s Care office today to book an appointment or schedule one online.